General Etiquette > Life...in general

Visiting a Sick Relative

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NYGirl100:
Hi, all!  I have another question for everyone.  My DH's oldest uncle is currently in the hospital and it doesn't look good.  We're not close to them - we only met them at the wedding and never saw them again.  The uncle is also not that close to my MIL because of a big age difference.  My parents only met them at the wedding as well, but they do live an hour away from the hospital.  The question -- is it appropriate and/or expected for my parents to go to the hospital to visit him?   If yes, should they bring anything?  Thank you in advance!

Chocolate Cake:
No, it's not expected that your parents visit your DH's uncle.  In fact, I'd go so far as to say that it would be inappropriate.  He doesn't know them, they don't know him, and I can think of nothing more awkward than for them (virtual stangers) to show up at his sickbed.   

If they feel they must do something, they should send a card.

ZipTheWonder:
I would say no.  The most I would suggest is that your parents might take over a meal or food trays to wherever the family is gathering, if they feel inclined to reach out to your husband's family.  

Evil Duckie:
No, it is not inappropriate to not visit. I would say the the opposite would be true.

Since they don't really know him, I would suggest that unless there is a good reason to not visit. They are strangers to him even though they are related. Send a card instead.

If they do visit. I would ask before taking anything because depending on which unit in the hospital he is in they might not be able to take anything in.

Gileswench:
I definitely have to go with the majority here: they shouldn't go. After all, they met the man once. If they'd like to send a card or good wishes through you, then that would be very kind and generous of them...though you should be prepared for the recipiant to be slightly bewildered by the thought since he doesn't know them.

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